Nadine Merabi defines Manchester style as ‘glamorous, edgy, experimental, and eclectic’, an aesthetic she channels into her party-ready eponymous womenswear label.
Here, Nadine shares her insider guide to Manchester, taking readers on a tour of the city’s hotspots and best-kept secrets.
Essential items to pack?
Every girl needs a show-stopping outfit for a night out here in Manchester. An oversized blazer you can take from day tonight is also an essential. And finally, an appetite: Manchester is bustling with fabulous restaurants and bars, you want to try as much as possible.
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The best time to visit Manchester is…
Summer, so you can enjoy a sunset drink at 20 Stories, with the most incredible view. Christmas is also a great time to visit. Manchester is famous for its markets during the winter, they are the perfect place to celebrate the festive season.
Our first pitstop should be…
Mackie Mayor. It’s the perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. In fact, you could eat the whole day away without stepping out from under their amazing glass roof. I love it because its an 1858 Grade-II listed market building.
Your favourite hotel to check-in at is…
Hotel Gotham. Its not your average hotel; the decor is super playful. The food is incredible and it also has a private members’ bar, Club Brass, on the top floor with the most stunning views across the city. It’s such a luxurious escape from the world.
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For an early morning workout head to…
Salford Quays. When I used to live in the city centre, an early morning jog along the canal on a crisp sunny morning was my favourite thing to do – and it still is.
Where should we go for breakfast?
Cicchetti has the most delicious full English breakfast. It’s my favourite place to go to start the day before a shopping spree in the city.
How about for a long, lazy lunch?
San Carlo. The food and drink are authentically Italian, but the contemporary setting is so chic and elegant.
And for dinner with friends?
This has to be Menagerie. Its the most perfect setting for a fun night out with the girls. There is so much fun to be had, there is never a dull moment, from trapeze acts to burlesque performances.
Your favourite restaurant in town?
I’ve already mentioned Menagerie, but Mana is an incredible Michelin-starred restaurant; they take care of the smallest details and have the best customer service. The quality and passion that goes into every dish creates the most unique experience.
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Where should we head post-dinner?
Albert’s Schloss is the perfect place to enjoy a fun Manchester night out. It has great food, cocktails, and amazing entertainment.
The drink to order at the bar…
An espresso martini.
A must-try spot for date night?
My husband Frank and I love to go to Sugo for the homely, chilled atmosphere. Their menu is pretty small but they get it so right – we have never been disappointed.
The best place to treat yourself is…
Alex’s Bakery. From the most beautiful cupcakes to delicious blondies and brownies, it is always a huge hit. It’s always our first stop to celebrate every occasion.
The best place for people watching…
Sunset by Australasia is perfect for a relaxed evening. The golden glow of the restaurant makes you feel like you are in Ibiza at sunset.
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The culture spot to rave about…
The Northern Quarter has some of Manchester’s best bars and restaurants. It has so much variety and diversity, and is the heart and soul of our city.
For great shopping head to…
In my opinion, Manchester is full of really great shops and designers, everything is within walking distance too, so you can truly shop ’til you drop! My favourite pitstops are Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, and Flannels.
The one place only locals know about…
Heaton Park, especially in the summer when the festival season starts. So many incredible artists have performed at outdoor events and festivals here.
Your favourite neighbourhood(s)…
After living in central Manchester for years, I have since moved out of the hustle and bustle. I love Altrincham as a village; it has all the fun and friendliness of the city, but at a much slower pace.
For the best views head to…
Cloud 23, The Hilton. The view of the city is stunning. It is such a memorable experience and I would recommend it for special occasions. Their afternoon tea is also the best in the city.
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How should we spend the final day of our trip?
Just outside the city, you can visit the beautiful Dunham Massey. It is a stately home, with deer-filled gardens and the best ice-cream parlour. My two daughters, Vivi and Etti, love it here.
In a word, Manchester is…
It’s so hard to describe Manchester in one word, so here are four: friendly, individualistic, down to earth, and electric.
Any Questions or Tips to add?